Is it a find?!

Hello Dan, I have this unique silver spoon that was handed down to me from my grandparents—it was in a silver chest along with the rest of their silver. I find it interesting because of the hook on the back. Could you please tell me anything about it? Thank you, H.L., Keene Greetings H.L., The spoon you presented was made by Johonnot & Smith in Windsor, Vermont circa 1820. It is made from coin silver, which is 90% pure silver. The term coin silver comes from the fact that United States silver coins minted at the time contained an overwhelming ninety percent silver. Often people would take their coins to a local silversmith or blacksmith, and, for a fee, their coins could be manufactured into silverware or other items. The unique hook on the rear was most likely a special request by the consumer for a specific need. Your spoon was likely made for mixing or serving and was meant to be hung on the edge of a dish. I have never seen one like it before. Its uniqueness may not add a whole lot to the value; but, to a certain collector, it could be a very appealing piece. In a retail setting, this spoon would likely sell for between $50–$70. For upkeep: You can safely polish this item lightly without affecting its value. It would be best to polish it with a gentle nonabrasive polish or a silver cloth; and make sure to store the spoon in a silver felt storage bag to prevent further tarnish from occurring. I see that the spoon is monogrammed on the top; perhaps it contains one of your ancestors' initials. Thank you for sharing your interesting find with us.